One Track Sunday Remembers Hal David

Hal David and Burt Bacharach had a great dynamic going during the height of their careers. The two worked together on such popular hits as “What the World Needs Now Is Love" and "I Say a Little Prayer” but were still free to work with other people when the mood arose. In 1970, the union produced “Raindrops Keep Fallin’ on my Head,” a track that appeared in the hit film Butch Cassidy and the Sundance Kid and later became a radio hit, as well as an Oscar winner.

If you’ve never seen Butch Cassidy and the Sundance Kid, the following clip from the film is unlike most of the rest of the movie. However, it’s a great moment of respite from hardship, where a rogue and his female companion get to spend the day in relaxation, having a bit of fun. Bacharach and David’s song supplements the scene, allowing us to feel for a moment that nothing could ever go wrong.

Earlier this week, David passed away at the Mount Sinai Medical Center. According to The New York Times, the man died of complications from a stroke at the age of 91. He’ll be remembered fondly by those who loved him and by the rest of us through his brilliant musical legacy. So, in his honor, here’s that beautiful scene featuring Butch Cassidy and the lovely Etta Place.

Our hearts go out to David’s family during this time of sadness. The world has lost one of the songwriting greats.